The University of Maine athletic department will host a free pregame festival before the men’s hockey game against Providence College on Saturday, Jan. 31.
The festival, presented by Waterfront Concerts to benefit the Bear Down Collective, runs from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in the new plaza outside the main entrance of Alfond Arena. The event is supported by Aroma Joe’s, Renewal by Andersen and Hannaford, and precedes the 7 p.m. hockey game.
Admission to the festival is free and does not require a ticket to the Maine-Providence men’s hockey game.
Fans can enjoy a stage show featuring DJ Jeff Buffington, appearances by The Screamin’ Black Bears pep band, men’s hockey head coach Ben Barr, Bananas and additional special guests. The event also includes a Hannaford Kids Zone, a bonfire pit and other activities.
Food and beverage options include local food trucks, free s’mores provided by Renewal by Andersen, and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverage sales.
Alcohol purchases are limited to a maximum of two drinks per person at a time. All serving staff are TIPS-certified (Training for Intervention Procedures) and will work with security staff to verify valid identification. Once verified, patrons will receive a wristband at each alcohol-purchasing location.
Schedule
- 4 p.m. : Festival begins
- 4-5:15 p.m.: DJ Jeff Buffington
- 5:15-5:45 p.m.: Game preview with head coach Ben Barr, performance by The Screamin’ Black Bears pep band and an onstage birthday celebration for Bananas.
- 6 p.m.: Doors open at Alfond Arena.
- 7 p.m.: Maine men’s hockey vs. Providence College.
